Holy Matrimony

Sacred Scripturebegins with the creation and union of man and woman and ends with "the wedding feast of the Lamb" (Rev 19:7, 9). Scripture often refers to marriage, its origin and purpose, the meaning God gave to it, and its renewal in the covenant made by Jesus with his Church. 

By their marriage, the couple witnesses Christ's spousal love for the Church. One of the Nuptial Blessings in the liturgical celebration of marriage refers to this in saying, "Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church." 

The Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant, which is more than a contract. Covenant always expresses a relationship between persons. The marriage covenant refers to the relationship between the husband and wife, a permanent union of persons capable of knowing and loving each other and God. The celebration of marriage is also a liturgical act, appropriately held in a public liturgy at church. Catholics are urged to celebrate their marriage within the Eucharistic Liturgy.

~from the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

Congratulations on your engagement!  Since the Sacrament of Marriage is a covenant (which is more than a contractual agreement) the community of St. Gabriel is here to help you prepare for this special permanent union.  Additionally, since the celebration of marriage in the Catholic church is a liturgical act and held publically in a church, we are also here to help you plan and prepare for the liturgical ceremony.  By getting married at St. Gabriel and in the Catholic Church, you are looking to enter into a sacramental marriage and we look foward to journeying with you through the preparation process.   In order to accomplish this in an orderly fashion and with adequate reflection, notice must be given to the parish six months prior to the desired date for the wedding. 

Learn more about our Marriage Preparation and Wedding Liturgy Planning Process here:
Marriage Preparation & Wedding Liturgy Planning